Mounting a successful presidential bid after such an unceremonious end to his premiership is a long shot. The 74-year-old would need to make the case to French voters that he would be best placed to lead France in an increasingly uncertain global order despite having failed to navigate a fragmented political landscape domestically.
Barnier ran for president in 2022, but fell at the first hurdle, placing third in his conservative Les Républicains party’s internal primary.
The competition may be even stiffer this time around, as other centrists and conservative contenders appear to have the edge.
A poll from Harris Interactive released last week shows Barnier enjoying less support than two other former prime ministers, Édouard Philippe and Gabriel Attal.
Within his own conservative party, Les Républicains, looms Bruno Retailleau, who has seen his approval rating surge since Barnier appointed him interior minister six months ago.
During his interview, Barnier stopped short of formally announcing a run, but outlined what could be the basis for a presidential platform. He vowed to fight what he perceives as the French administration’s “powerlessness” on issues like state finances and immigration; tackle inflation; and streamline bureaucracy.